A Flow Component

ABSTRACT

A flow component for a ventilation or air condition system has an inlet formation provided with an inlet aperture fluidly connected to an outlet, a first abutment portion configured to abut, in use, a wall framing member and a second abutment portion configured to abut, in use, a ceiling frame member. The flow component has a channel formation on at least one side of the inlet formation or the outlet which is adapted to receive a side wall of a second flow component in use.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to a flow component for a ventilationsystem, and in particular, but not exclusively, to a diffuser or returnfor an air-conditioning system which has an improved means of connectionto a duct.

BACKGROUND ART

Forced ventilation, in particular air conditioning, is an essentialfeature of most modern commercial buildings and of many residentialbuildings.

Typically, air is pumped through a system of ducts which are locatedabove the ceiling or beneath the floor. Air moves from the ducts to aroom which is to be ventilated through a diffuser. The diffuser ensuresthat the air mixes with the air already in the room while producing aminimum of noise.

In order to provide a sufficient volume of air at a relatively low airspeed (thereby avoiding drafts and excessive noise), the diffusers mustbe relatively large and/or a large number of diffusers must be used.While aesthetically pleasing diffuser designs are available, thereexists a need for an efficient diffuser which is either substantiallyinvisible or is at least visually unobtrusive.

The ventilation system typically also has one or more air returnsthrough which stale air moves from the room and is expelled to theatmosphere, sometime via a return duct system.

Creating a seal between the air conditioning ducting and the diffuser orreturn can be difficult. Typically, the ducting is provided with a rigid“boot” which slides over an inlet of the diffuser/return. Sealingbetween the boot and the diffuser is often achieved through the use ofsuitable sealant compounds which are applied (often in a liquid or pasteform) between the boot and the diffuser/return and/or through the use ofsealing tape.

While the prior art methods of sealing may work well when the installerhas room to work around the diffuser/return, it may be difficult orimpossible to seal the diffuser/return properly if it is mounted closeto a structural element of the building (for example a ceiling beam)which restricts access to one or more sides. Furthermore, traditionalsealing methods may be inconvenient and messy.

Another problem with existing diffuser designs relates to the fact thatit is impossible to create a perfectly flat ceiling or wall. Theimperfections inherent in these building elements can make it difficultto create a smooth joint where the ceiling or wall lining meets thediffuser.

A common design feature of commercial interior fit-outs, in particularfit-outs in the retail sector, is a ceiling which has a “negativedetail” around the outer perimeter. This negative detail has theappearance of a slot between the wall and the ceiling. However, thedifficulties with creating a flat ceiling or wall mentioned above areparticularly prevalent when creating a negative detail effect.

All references, including any patents or patent applications cited inthis specification are hereby incorporated by reference. No admission ismade that any reference constitutes prior art. The discussion of thereferences states what their authors assert, and the applicants reservethe right to challenge the accuracy and pertinency of the citeddocuments. It will be clearly understood that, although a number ofprior art publications are referred to herein, this reference does notconstitute an admission that any of these documents form part of thecommon general knowledge in the art, in New Zealand or in any othercountry.

Unless the context clearly requires otherwise, throughout thedescription and the claims, the words “comprise”, “comprising”, and thelike, are to be construed in an inclusive sense as opposed to anexclusive or exhaustive sense, that is to say, in the sense of“including, but not limited to”.

It is an object of the present invention to address one or more of theforegoing problems, or at least to provide the public with a usefulchoice.

Further aspects and advantages of the present invention will becomeapparent from the ensuing description which is given by way of exampleonly.

DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION

A flow component for a ventilation or air conditioning system comprisingan inlet formation provided with an inlet aperture which is fluidlyconnected to an outlet, the flow component comprising a first abutmentportion configured to abut, in use, a wall framing member and a secondabutment portion configured to abut, in use, a ceiling framing member.

Preferably the flow component comprises a channel formation on at leastone side of the inlet formation or the outlet.

Preferably the or each channel formation is provided with a sealingmember.

Preferably the or each channel formation is adapted to receive a sidewall of a second flow component.

Preferably the or each channel formation comprises at least one recessadapted to engage a projecting portion provided to the side wall of thesecond flow component to thereby prevent disengagement of the side wallfrom the channel.

Preferably the at least one recess comprises a groove.

Preferably the groove is adapted to receive a dimple provided on theside wall of the second flow component.

Preferably the sealing member has a substantially circularcross-section.

Preferably the sealing member extends along an entire length of thechannel formation.

Preferably the sealing member is a substantially U-shaped resilientsealing member.

Preferably the flow component is configured as a diffuser.

Preferably the flow component is configured as a return.

Preferably the first abutment portion comprises a first abutment portionsurface.

Preferably the inlet formation is offset from a plane of the firstabutment portion surface.

Preferably the offset is at least 10 mm, more preferably around 20 mm.In some embodiments the offset may be as much as substantially 50 mm.

Preferably the second abutment portion comprises a second abutmentportion surface, wherein the plane of the first abutment portion surfaceis substantially orthogonal to a plane of the second abutment portionsurface.

Preferably the inlet formation extends no more than 35 mm from the planeof the second abutment portion surface.

Preferably the flow component comprises a wall lining engagementformation for engaging a wall lining element in use.

Preferably the wall lining engagement formation comprises a firstcapping portion which extends substantially orthogonally from the firstabutment portion and a first trim portion which extends from a distalend of the first capping portion, substantially orthogonally to thefirst capping portion.

Preferably the flow component comprises a ceiling lining engagementformation for engaging a ceiling lining element in use.

Preferably the ceiling lining engagement formation comprises a secondcapping portion which extends substantially orthogonally from the secondabutment portion and a second trim portion which extends from a distalend of the second capping portion, substantially orthogonally to thesecond capping portion.

Preferably the outlet is defined in part by the ceiling liningengagement formation and the wall lining engagement formation.

Preferably the flow component comprises a body which defines the firstabutment portion, the second abutment portion, the inlet formation andthe flow path from the inlet aperture to the air outlet.

Preferably the body is an extrusion.

Preferably the flow component comprises end caps secured to each end ofthe body.

Preferably the flow component comprises a plurality of air inlets and atleast one air outlet, wherein each air outlet is fluidly connected to atleast one of the plurality of air inlets.

Preferably each inlet aperture is covered by a respective coveringmeans.

Preferably each covering means is connected to the body by a respectivefrangible linking portion.

Preferably the flow component comprises at least one moveable airflowdirecting means adapted to control a direction of a flow of air from theoutlet, in use.

According to a second aspect of the present invention there is providedthe use of a diffuser of the first aspect as a joining means for use informing a negative detail between a wall lining element and a ceilinglining element, the joining means provided with at least one flowprevention means for preventing flow through the or each air inlet.

According to a third aspect of the present invention there is provided ajoining means for use in forming a negative detail between a wall liningelement and a ceiling lining element, the joining means comprising awall lining engagement formation, a ceiling lining engagement formationand a connecting portion provided between the wall lining engagementformation and the ceiling lining engagement formation.

Preferably the connecting portion defines a channel.

Preferably the joining means comprises a first abutment portionconfigured to abut, in use, a wall framing member.

Preferably the connecting portion comprises two substantially parallelwalls.

Preferably the substantially parallel walls extend at an angle to aplane of the first abutment portion.

Preferably the wall lining engagement formation comprises a firstcapping portion which extends substantially orthogonally from the firstabutment portion, and a first trim portion which extends from a distalend of the first capping portion, substantially orthogonally to thefirst capping portion.

Preferably the joining means comprises a second abutment portionconfigured to abut, in use, a ceiling framing member.

Preferably the ceiling lining engagement formation comprising a secondcapping portion which extends substantially orthogonally from the secondabutment portion, and a second trim portion which extends from a distalend of the second capping portion, substantially orthogonally to thesecond capping portion.

Preferably the joining means is elongate.

Preferably the joining means has a substantially constant transversecross-section.

Preferably the joining means comprises an extruded body comprising atleast the wall lining engagement formation, the ceiling liningengagement formation and the connecting portion.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention there is provideda method of manufacturing a diffuser for an air conditioning systemcomprising the steps of:

-   -   i) extruding a body comprising an air inlet formation, an air        outlet, a first abutment portion for abutting, in use, a wall        framing member and a second abutment portion for abutting, in        use, a ceiling framing member; and    -   ii) creating at least one air inlet aperture in the air inlet        formation. Preferably the method comprises the step of:    -   iii) creating a plurality of air inlet apertures in the air        inlet formation, wherein the air inlet apertures are spaced        apart along a length of the body;

Preferably the method comprises the step of attaching an end cap to eachend of the body.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention there is provided aflow component for a ventilation or air conditioning system comprisingan inlet formation provided with a first aperture and an outletformation provided with a second aperture, wherein the first and secondapertures are in fluid communication, the flow component comprising achannel formation on at least one side of at least one of the inlet andoutlet, the or each channel formation adapted to receive a substantiallyU-shaped sealing member.

Preferably, the or each channel formation is provided with asubstantially U-shaped resilient sealing member.

Preferably, the or each U-shaped resilient sealing member comprises twoside walls.

Preferably, at least one inner face of the or each channel formation isprovided with a protruding engagement formation which is adapted toengage a complementary recess or notch in an outer face of a sidewall ofthe respective U-shaped resilient sealing member.

Preferably, the or each channel formation comprises a pair of opposedinner faces, each inner face provided with protruding engagementformations which engage complementary recesses provided on both sidewalls of the respective U-shaped resilient sealing member.

Preferably, at least one inner face of the or each channel formation isprovided with a recess which is adapted to receive an outwardlyprotruding portion of the respective U-shaped resilient sealing member.

Preferably, each inner face of the or each channel formation is providedwith a recess which is adapted to receive respective outwardlyprotruding portions of the respective U-shaped resilient sealing member.

Preferably, each side wall of the or each U-shaped resilient sealingmember has an inner face, wherein each inner face of each side wall ofthe or each U-shaped resilient sealing members is provided with aprotruding formation.

Preferably, the or each U-shaped resilient sealing member is adapted toreceive a side wall of a second flow component.

Preferably, the flow component is a diffuser and the channel formationis provided on at least one side of the inlet formation.

Preferably, the flow component comprises a first channel on a first sideof the first aperture and a second channel provided on a second side ofthe first aperture, opposite the first side. Alternatively, the channelextends continuously around the first aperture.

Preferably, the flow component is a return and the channel formation isprovided on at least one side of the outlet formation.

Preferably, the flow component comprises a first channel on a first sideof the second aperture and a second channel provided on a second side ofthe second aperture, opposite the first side. Alternatively, the channelextends continuously around the second aperture.

Preferably, the flow component is a supply boot.

Preferably, the flow component comprises a first channel on a first sideof a selected one of said apertures and a second channel provided on asecond side of the selected aperture, opposite the first side.Alternatively, the channel extends continuously around the selectedaperture.

According to a sixth aspect of the present invention there is provided aflow component for a ventilation or air conditioning system comprisingan inlet formation provided with a first aperture and an outletformation provided with a second aperture, wherein the first and secondapertures are in fluid communication, the flow component comprising achannel formation on at least one side of at least one of the inlet andoutlet formations, the or each channel formation provided with a sealingmember and adapted to receive a side wall of a second flow component.

Preferably, the or each channel formation comprises at least one recessadapted to engage a projecting portion provided to the side wall of thesecond flow component to thereby prevent disengagement of the side wallfrom the channel.

Preferably, the at least one recess comprises a groove.

Preferably the at least one projecting portion is formed as a dimple onthe side wall and the groove is adapted to receive the dimple.

Preferably, the sealing member has a substantially circularcross-section.

Preferably, the sealing member extends along the entire length of thechannel formation.

Preferably, the first flow component is a diffuser and the channelformation is provided on at least one side of the inlet formation.

Preferably, the first flow component is a return and the channelformation is provided on at least one side of the outlet formation.

Preferably, the first flow component is a supply boot.

Preferably, the channel formation of the first flow component comprisesa first channel formation on a first side of a selected one of saidapertures and a second channel formation provided on a second side ofthe selected aperture, opposite the first side. Alternatively, thechannel formation extends continuously around the selected aperture.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

Further aspects of the present invention will become apparent from thefollowing description which is given by way of example only and withreference to the accompanying drawings in which:

FIG. 1 Is an end view of a diffuser according to one embodiment of thepresent invention with a boot installed and an end cap removed forclarity;

FIG. 2 Is a perspective view of the diffuser and boot of FIG. 1 with theends and the diffuser core removed for clarity;

FIG. 3 Is an enlarged partial view of the left-hand side of the diffuserand boot shown in FIG. 1, with the diffuser core removed;

FIG. 4 Is a further enlarged view of the left-hand channel of thediffuser of FIG. 1;

FIG. 5 Is a cross-sectional end view of a diffuser according to a secondembodiment of the present invention with a boot installed;

FIG. 6 Is a cross-sectional end view of a return according to a thirdembodiment of the present invention with the resilient sealing membersomitted for clarity;

FIG. 7 Is an exploded view of an assembly comprising a diffuser and aboot according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 8 Shows an enlarged cross-sectional view of a side wall of the bootand a channel of the diffuser of FIG. 7;

FIG. 9 Is a perspective view of a diffuser according to a fifthembodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 10 Is an end view of the diffuser of FIG. 9;

FIG. 11 Is an end view of an assembly comprising the diffuser of FIG. 9(with a bracing member installed), a supply boot, a ceiling batten,ceiling lining, wall lining and wall framing;

FIG. 12 Is an end view of the diffuser of FIGS. 9 and 10 engaged with aboot and with the bracing member installed;

FIG. 13 Is an end view of a diffuser according to a sixth embodiment ofthe present invention;

FIG. 14 Is a perspective view of a diffuser according to a seventhembodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 15 Is a perspective view of an extrusion forming one side wall of aboot according to an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 16 Is an end view of the extrusion of FIG. 15;

FIG. 17 Is an enlarged view of detail A of the boot of FIG. 15;

FIG. 18 Is an end view of a mounting frame for a diffuser according to afurther embodiment of the present invention with a boot installed and anend cap removed for clarity;

FIG. 19 Is a cross-section view of a flow component with a bootinstalled, and with the sealing member not shown; and

FIG. 20 Is an end view of an extrusion forming one side of the boot ofFIG. 19.

FIG. 21 is an end view of a joining means according to an embodiment ofthe invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

Referring first to FIGS. 1-4, a flow component according to oneembodiment of the invention is generally referenced by arrow 100. In theembodiments shown in FIGS. 1-4 the flow component is configured as adiffuser. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, the diffuser 100 is similarto that described in New Zealand patent No. 328324, although many otherconfigurations are possible, as is described further below.

The embodiment shown in FIG. 1 comprises a mounting frame 1 to which adiffuser core 2 is attached in use. The core 2 defines one or moreoutlets 25 for the diffuser. The frame 1 is provided with resilientlocating means 3 adapted to locate the frame 1 with respect to thebuilding structure (not shown) to which the diffuser 100 is mounted inuse, and locating means 4 adapted to locate ceiling panels (not shown)with respect to the frame 1.

The diffuser 100 comprises an inlet formation 5 provided with at leastone inlet aperture 6. A first channel 7 is provided on a first side ofthe inlet formation 5 and a second channel 8 is provided on the oppositesecond side of the inlet formation 5. Each channel 7, 8 is adapted toreceive a substantially U-shaped resilient sealing member 9. TheU-shaped resilient sealing member 9 preferably extends, in use, alongsubstantially the entire length of the respective channel 7, 8. Inpreferred embodiments the U-shaped resilient sealing member 9 is madefrom rubber.

In some embodiments, the side walls 10 of the channels 7, 8 may besubstantially equal in height. However, this is not essential, and inthe embodiment shown in FIGS. 1-4 the walls 10 of the channels aredifferent heights, with the inner side walls 10 a being higher than theouter side walls 10 b. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 the inner sidewall 10 a of each channel comprises a side wall of the inlet formation5.

In some embodiments, the outer faces of the U-shaped resilient membermay be attached to the inner faces of the side walls of the channel bymeans of an adhesive or similar. However, as best seen in FIG. 4, inother embodiments at least one inner face 11 of the channel is providedwith a protruding engagement formation 12 which is adapted to engage acomplementary recess or notch 13 in an outer face 14 of the side wall 15of the U-shaped resilient sealing member 9. In the embodiment shown aplurality of protruding engagement formations 12 are provided on bothinner faces of the channel 7.

At least one of the engagement formations 12 has an upper surface 16which slopes downward from the side wall 10 of the channel towards abase 17 of the channel, and a lower surface 18 which also slopesdownward from the side wall 10 of the channel towards the base of thechannel, or is substantially parallel to the base 17 of the channel.This shape may assist with retaining the U-shaped resilient sealingmember 9 within the channel, while allowing the sealing member to beinstalled into the channel 7, 8 relatively easily.

In preferred embodiments, at least one of the inner faces 11 of thechannel 7, 8 is provided with a recess 19 which is adapted to receive anoutwardly protruding portion 20 of the resilient sealing member 9. Inpreferred embodiments an upper edge 21 of the outer wall of each channelmay be flared outwardly in order to assist with guiding a boot 22 intoposition.

In some embodiments the resilient sealing members 9 are engaged with thediffuser 100 before the diffuser 100 is installed into an in-useposition. With the resilient sealing members 9 in place, a suitablyshaped boot 22 (for example one with appropriately spaced substantiallyparallel sidewalls 23) can be engaged with the diffuser 100 by insertingthe sidewalls 23 into the mouth 24 of the respective resilient sealingmembers 9.

In alternative embodiments, the resilient sealing members 9 may beengaged with the sidewalls of the boot by inserting the sidewalls 23into the mouth 24 of the respective resilient sealing members. The boot22 with the resilient sealing members 9 attached may then be engagedwith the diffuser by inserting the side walls (and resilient sealingmembers) into the respective channels. Once so installed, the resilientsealing members 9 create a seal between the boot 22 and the diffuser100, eliminating the need for the use of separate sealing compoundsand/or sealing tapes along the sides of the diffuser 100. Somealternative sealing means such as sealing compound and/or tape may berequired at the ends of the diffuser 100, or possibly a patch of metalplaced at the end, although in some embodiments no sealing may berequired between the ends of the boot and the diffuser.

Referring next to FIG. 5, another embodiment of a flow component in theform of a diffuser according to the invention is shown with a boot 22installed, and is generally referenced by arrow 101.

As well as the inlet formation 5, inlet aperture(s) 6, outlet 25, firstand second channels 7, 8 and U-shaped resilient sealing members 9, theembodiment shown in FIG. 5 is also provided with a first abutmentportion 26 configured to abut, in use, a wall framing member (not shown)and a second abutment portion 27 configured to abut, in use, a ceilingframing member (not shown). As with the diffuser described above, theresilient sealing members 9 may be engaged with the channels 7, 8 beforeinstallation, or they may be engaged with the boot 22 and may engagewith the channels 7, 8 only when the boot 22 is connected to the return.

Referring next to FIG. 6, a flow component according to an embodiment ofthe invention is generally referenced as arrow 102. In this embodimentthe flow component is a return. The return 102 is substantiallyidentical in shape to the diffuser 101 shown in FIG. 5, but the inletformation of the diffuser operates as outlet formation 28 and thepositions of the inlet aperture 6 and outlets 25 are swapped. In thisembodiment, the channels 7, 8 and resilient sealing members (not shown)are provided on either side of the outlet formation 28 rather than theinlet formation. The shape of the channels 7, 8 and the resilientsealing members may be identical to embodiments which are configured asdiffusers.

Referring next to FIGS. 7 and 8, an assembly is shown comprising a firstflow component in the form of a diffuser 103 and a second flow componentin the form of a boot 22.

As shown the diffuser 103 may have an inlet 6 comprising four sides. Achannel 31, similar to the side channels described above, extendscontinuously around the inlet 6.

As shown in FIG. 8, the boot 22 may further comprise sidewalls 23, eachof which is provided with a resilient sealing member 9 similar to thatdescribed above. The resilient sealing member 9 may then be insertedinto the channel 31 as indicated in FIG. 8, to thereby seal the boot 22to the diffuser 103. A similar system may be used for connecting a bootto a return, or another flow component.

Referring to FIGS. 9-13, a first flow component according to a furtherembodiment of the invention is similar to the embodiment shown in FIGS.5 and 6, and is generally referenced by arrow 104. In the embodimentsshown in FIGS. 9-13 the first flow component is configured as adiffuser. However, those of skill in the art will appreciate thediffuser may also be used as a return for a ventilation orair-conditioning system, with references to inlets being substituted forreferences to outlets and vice versa.

In many embodiments the abutment portions 26, 27 will be connected tothe respective framing members 34, 35 by the use of suitable fasteners,for example screws or nails. As shown in FIGS. 9 and 10 in particular,the inner surfaces of the first and second abutment portions 26, 27 maybe provided with channels or grooves 29 which assist in the installationof the fasteners.

In preferred embodiments the diffuser 104 is elongate, and in manyembodiments comprises an extruded body 30 which defines the firstabutment portion 26, second abutment portion 27, air inlet formation 5,and the flow path between the air inlet aperture 6 and the outlet 25.

The first abutment portion 26 comprises a first abutment portion surface50 which is preferably substantially planar. The second abutment portion27 comprises a second abutment portion surface 51 which is alsopreferably substantially planar. In preferred embodiments the plane P1of the first abutment portion surface 50 is substantially orthogonal tothe plane P2 of the second abutment portion surface 51, as best seen inFIG. 12.

Referring next to FIG. 11, the diffuser 104 preferably comprises a walllining engagement formation 52 for engaging a wall lining element 37 inuse. The wall lining engagement formation 52 comprises a first cappingportion 53 which extends substantially orthogonally from the firstabutment portion 26, and a first trim portion 54 which extends from adistal end of the first capping portion 53, substantially orthogonallyto the first capping portion 53. As best seen in FIG. 11, in use a walllining element 37, for example a plasterboard sheet, can be engaged withthe wall lining engagement formation 52 such that the end of the walllining element 37 is substantially adjacent the first capping portion53. In this way the end of the wall lining element 37 is covered in anaesthetically pleasing way.

In preferred embodiments the diffuser 100 also comprises a ceilinglining engagement formation 55 which comprises a second capping portion56 which extends substantially orthogonally from the second abutmentportion 27 and a second trim portion 57 which extends from the distalend of the second capping portion 56, substantially orthogonally to thesecond capping portion 56. As can be seen in FIG. 11, the ceiling liningengagement formation 55 operates in substantially the same way as thewall lining engagement formation 52 to engage a ceiling lining element38 (for example a plasterboard sheet) and to conceal the end of theceiling lining element 38.

The wall lining engagement formation 52 and ceiling lining engagementformation 55 also function to ensure that the interface between thediffuser and the wall lining and ceiling lining is smooth, and that anyimperfections in the flatness of the wall or ceiling are accommodated.In a preferred method of installation, a gap of 300 mm may be providedbetween the diffuser 104 and the nearest wall or ceiling fixing, inorder to allow a gentle transition between the plane of the surroundingwall/ceiling lining and the diffuser.

The first abutment portion 26 and the second abutment portion 27 maycomprise one or more protrusions 36 which are configured to ensure thewall lining 37 and ceiling lining 38 have a secure fit, as best seen inFIG. 11. In some forms of the technology the protrusions 36 may be inthe form of dimples so that they are able to be easily flattened forinstance by using pliers or by being stamped with a hammer. This meansthat in cases where the wall lining 37 or ceiling lining 38 is of agreater thickness the protrusions can be adjusted to ensure a securefit.

As can be seen in FIGS. 10 and 11, the outlet 25 is defined at least inpart by the ceiling lining engagement formation 55 and the wall liningengagement formation 52. In many embodiments the diffuser 104 definesonly a single outlet 25 which extends along the length of the diffuser.However, in some embodiments (not shown) partitions or baffles may beprovided along the length of the diffuser in order to define multipleoutlets.

In some embodiments LED strip lighting may be provided within thediffuser, for example on the upper surface of the wall lining engagementformation.

In preferred embodiments the diffuser 104 is provided with a movableairflow directing means 60 (shown in FIGS. 11 and 12, and also FIG. 5)of a known type which is adapted to determine a direction of airflowfrom the outlet 25. The airflow directing means 60 can be rotated abouta rotatable connection 61 to the body 30 in order to adjust the airflowdirecting means 60 between a first position (not shown) in which the airis directed along the ceiling lining and a second position (shown inFIGS. 5, 11 and 12) in which air is directed down the wall lining. Theapplicant has found that when the airflow directing means 60 is in thefirst position the airflow from the diffuser 100 remains attached to theceiling lining for a significant distance, for example a number ofmeters. When the airflow directing means 60 is in the second positionthe airflow remains attached to the wall lining for a similar distance.The airflow directing means 60 can be positioned intermediate the firstand second positions if airflow which is not attached to one of thelinings is required. When the apparatus is configured as a return, theairflow directing means 60 may be omitted.

Those skilled in the art will appreciate that provision of the walllining engagement formation 52 and the ceiling lining engagementformation 55 mean that the diffuser 104 will be integrated into theinterior decoration of the room in an aesthetically pleasing way. Insome modes of installation (not shown) the intersection between the trimportions 54, 57 and the respective lining elements 37, 38 may beplastered in order to create a seamless appearance. However, in manyinstallations this will not be necessary as the trim portions 54, 57create an aesthetically pleasing interface between the diffuser and thelining elements. In some installations the trim portions 54, 57 may bepainted the same colour as the ceiling and walls (optionally followingthe application of a suitable priming material), such that the diffuser104 is visually integrated into the wall and ceiling, and may besubstantially invisible.

As best seen in FIG. 12, the inlet formation 5 (or, where provided, thefirst channel 7) is preferably offset from a plane P1 of the firstabutment portion surface by a distance X1. The offset distance X1 ispreferably at least 10 mm, for example between 10 mm and 50 mm, morepreferably around 20 mm. This offset allows a supply boot 22 to beconnected to the inlet formation 5 after the diffuser 104 has beenattached to the wall framing 34 without interference between the bootand the wall framing 34, as shown in FIG. 11.

In preferred embodiments the distance X2 that the inlet formation 5extends from a plane P2 of the second abutment portion surface 51 is nomore than 35 mm. This ensures that the height the diffuser extends abovethe bottom surface of the ceiling framing member 35 is the same or lessthen the height of a typical ceiling batten to which the diffuser 104 ismounted (as shown in FIG. 11), thereby ensuring that the diffuser doesnot interfere with other structural members in the ceiling.

Referring next to FIG. 13 in particular, as is mentioned above, thediffuser 104 may be manufactured by extrusion of a body 30 comprisingthe inlet formation 5, the first abutment portion 26 and the secondabutment portion 27, whereby the first and second abutment portionsdefine an air outlet 25. The body 30 may be extruded from aluminium or asuitable plastics material. Following extrusion of the body 30, one ormore inlet apertures 6 may be created in the inlet formation 5, forexample by a stamping process. End caps (not shown) may be provided ateither end of the diffuser 104 and may be secured to the body byfasteners. The body 30 may be provided with fastener receivingformations 62 for receiving the fasteners.

The airflow directing means 60 may be attached to the body 30 by anysuitable means, but is preferably provided with a substantiallycylindrical attachment portion which engages a complimentary receivingformation 63 provided on the body 30.

As well as the outlet 25, first abutment portion 26 and second abutmentportion 27, the embodiment shown in FIG. 9 is also provided with covermeans 32 which cover the inlet apertures 6 and are attached to the body30 by linking portions 33. The linking portions 33 are relatively weakor frangible so that selected cover means 32 can be removed by theinstaller by bending to allow air flow through the correspondingaperture.

The diffuser 104 may also be supplied with a removeable bracing member41 as shown in FIGS. 11 and 12. The removeable bracing member 41 spansthe outlet 25 and ensures the correct spacing between the first andsecond abutment portions 26, 27 is maintained during the installationprocess. The bracing member 41 may also reduce the possibility of damageor distortion of the diffuser 104 during transportation andinstallation. The bracing member 25 may be removed once the diffuser 104is installed by rotating the bracing member 41. FIGS. 10 and 13 show thediffuser 104 with the bracing member 25 removed.

The channels 7, 8 may be configured to receive a sealing member 39. Thesealing member 39 is configured to fit along the bottom of the channel7, 8. In use, the sealing member creates a seal between the channel ofthe diffuser and the side wall 23 of a second flow component, in thiscase a boot 22, which is engaged in use with the diffuser 104.

In some forms of the technology as shown in FIGS. 11 and 12 the sealingmember may be substantially circular in cross-section, although othershapes may be used.

The channels 7, 8 may be provided with a recess 19 on one or both sidewalls of the channels 7, 8. Not all the recesses and protrusions seen onthe side walls of the channels 7, 8 in FIGS. 9-13 are essential toembodiments which use a round cross-section sealing member, butprovision of the recesses shown may allow use of a U-shaped sealingmember (such as described above) if required. The recess 19 may beconfigured as a channel, and is configured to receive a projectingportion 40 from the side wall 23 of the second flow component. Thisprojection 40 is configured to engage the recess 19 such that once theside wall 23 is inserted in the channel 7, 8 it is restrained fromdisengaging the channel. However, some embodiments may be configuredsuch that if the side wall 23 is pushed inwards the projection 40disengages from the recess 19 and the side wall 23 is able to bedetached from the channel. In some forms of the technology more than oneprojection 40 is provided along the length of the side wall 23. In someforms of the technology the projection 40 may be in the form of a dimplethat has been pressed out of the side wall 23. FIGS. 15-17 show detailsof the supply boot 23 and the projection 40 in the form of a dimple.

In alternative embodiments the channels 7, 8 may form part of the boot23 and the projections and side wall 23 may form part of the diffuser104.

FIG. 14 shows an alternative embodiment of a flow component in the formof a diffuser 105. The diffuser 105 differs from the previous embodimentin that it has only one channel 7 and the channel does not have anyrecesses or protrusions on the side walls. The channel 7 is configuredto receive a sealing member 39 which can then form a seal with a sidewall 23 of a second flow component. The other side of the diffuser 105may be sealed to the boot using sealing compounds or sealing tape.

FIG. 18 shows a further alternative embodiment of a flow component inthe form of a diffuser 106, similar to the diffuser shown in FIG. 1.FIG. 18 shows a mounting frame 1, similar to that shown in FIG. 1, towhich a diffuser core (not shown) is attached in use. As with theembodiment shown in FIG. 1, the frame 1 is provided with resilientlocating means 3 adapted to locate the frame 1 with respect to thebuilding structure (not shown) to which the diffuser 106 is mounted inuse, and locating means 4 adapted to locate ceiling panels (not shown)with respect to the frame 1. The diffuser 100 comprises an inletformation 5 provided with at least one inlet aperture 6. A first channel7 is provided on a first side of the inlet formation 5 and a secondchannel 8 is provided on the opposite second side of the inlet formation5. The channels may be provided with a sealing member 39, as with theembodiments shown in FIGS. 11 and 12. Each of the channels 7, 8 may beprovided with a recess 19 as described above. The recess 19 isconfigured to receive a projecting portion 40 from the side wall 23 ofthe boot 22. This projection 40 is configured to engage the recess 19such that once the side wall 23 is inserted in the channel 7, 8 it isrestrained from disengaging the channel.

In a further embodiment of the invention shown in FIGS. 19 and 20 a boot22 comprises channels 7, 8 which are adapted to engage with a side wallof a second flow component 42 such as a diffuser or grille. The channels7, 8 comprise a recess 19 configured to receive a projection 40 from theside wall 43 of the flow component 42. The projection 40 is configuredto engage the recess 19 such that once the side wall 43 is inserted inthe channel 7, 8 it is restrained from disengaging the channel. In use,the channels 7, 8 are provided with a sealing means (not shown) as shownin FIGS. 11 and 12.

The diffuser/return shown in FIGS. 6 and 9-14 provides a convenientjoining means between the wall lining element and the ceiling liningelement where a “negative detail” effect is required. In somesituations, the diffuser/return may be installed simply to be used as ajoining means rather than as a diffuser or a return. For example, a foursided room (not shown) may have the diffuser/return installed along oneside configured as a diffuser, two sides with the diffuser/returnconfigured as a joining means, and a fourth side with thediffuser/return configured as a return for the air conditioning system.

Referring next to FIG. 21, according to another embodiment of theinvention a variation of the diffuser/return shown in FIGS. 6 and 9-14is manufactured solely for use as such a joining means 200. Thisembodiment is provided with a first abutment portion 26 and a walllining engagement formation 52, a second abutment portion 27 and aceiling lining engagement formation 55, for example as described above.However, rather than an inlet formation, the joining means 200 isprovided with a connecting portion 64 between the first abutment portion26 and second abutment portion 27. The connecting portion 30 ispreferably a similar shape to the inlet formation 5 described above, andthereby defines a channel 65 which creates the required “negativedetail”.

In the embodiment shown the channel 65 is defined in part by twosubstantially parallel walls 66 which extend an angle to a plane of thefirst abutment portion 26. However, no inlet apertures are provided inthe connecting portion.

The joining means 200 is preferably elongate and has a substantiallyconstant transverse cross-section. In preferred embodiments the joiningmeans comprises an extruded body which defines the first abutmentportion 26, second abutment portion 27 and connecting portion 64. Inpreferred embodiments the body is an aluminium extrusion.

While the embodiment shown in FIG. 21 is provided with fastenerreceiving portions 62 and a receiving formation 63, these are notessential and will be omitted from many embodiments.

Use of the joining means 200 described above may assist in creating anegative detail effect which reduces or substantially eliminates thevisual impact of non-planar walls or ceilings.

The invention may also be said broadly to consist in the parts, elementsand features referred to or indicated in the specification of theapplication, individually or collectively, in any or all combinations oftwo or more of said parts, elements or features.

Where in the foregoing description reference has been made to integersor components having known equivalents thereof, those integers areherein incorporated as if individually set forth.

It should be noted that various changes and modifications to thepresently preferred embodiments described herein will be apparent tothose skilled in the art. Such changes and modifications may be madewithout departing from the spirit and scope of the invention and withoutdiminishing its attendant advantages. It is therefore intended that suchchanges and modifications be included within the present invention.

Aspects of the present invention have been described by way of exampleonly and it should be appreciated that modifications and additions maybe made thereto without departing from the scope thereof.

1. A flow component for a ventilation or air conditioning systemcomprising an inlet formation provided with an inlet aperture which isfluidly connected to an outlet, the flow component comprising a firstabutment portion configured to abut, in use, a wall framing member and asecond abutment portion configured to abut, in use, a ceiling framingmember.
 2. The flow component of claim 1 comprising a channel formationon at least one side of the inlet formation or the outlet, the channelformation adapted to receive a side wall of a second flow component, inuse.
 3. The flow component of claim 2 wherein the or each channelformation is provided with a sealing member which extends along anentire length of the channel formation.
 4. The flow component of claim2, wherein the or each channel formation comprises at least one recessadapted to engage a projecting portion provided to the side wall of thesecond flow component to thereby prevent disengagement of the side wallfrom the channel.
 5. The flow component of claim 4 wherein the at leastone recess comprises a groove.
 6. The flow component of claim 5 whereinthe groove is adapted to receive a dimple provided on the side wall ofthe second flow component.
 7. The flow component of claim 3 wherein thesealing member has a substantially circular cross-section.
 8. (canceled)9. The flow component of claim 3 wherein the sealing member is asubstantially U-shaped resilient sealing member.
 10. The flow componentof claim 1 configured as a diffuser.
 11. The flow component of claim 10wherein the first abutment portion comprises a first abutment portionsurface and the inlet formation is offset from a plane of the firstabutment portion surface.
 12. (canceled)
 13. The flow component of claim11 wherein the second abutment portion comprises a second abutmentportion surface, wherein the plane of the first abutment portion surfaceis substantially orthogonal to a plane of the second abutment portionsurface.
 14. The flow component of claim 10 wherein the flow componentcomprises a wall lining engagement formation for engaging a wall liningelement in use.
 15. The flow component of claim 14 wherein the walllining engagement formation comprises a first capping portion whichextends substantially orthogonally from the first abutment portion and afirst trim portion which extends from a distal end of the first cappingportion, substantially orthogonally to the first capping portion. 16.The flow component of claim 14 comprising a ceiling lining engagementformation for engaging a ceiling lining element in use, wherein theceiling lining engagement formation comprises a second capping portionwhich extends substantially orthogonally from the second abutmentportion and a second trim portion which extends from a distal end of thesecond capping portion, substantially orthogonally to the second cappingportion.
 17. (canceled)
 18. The flow component of claim 16 wherein theoutlet is defined in part by the ceiling lining engagement formation andthe wall lining engagement formation.
 19. The flow component of claim 10comprising a body which defines the first abutment portion, the secondabutment portion, the inlet formation and a flow path from the inletaperture to the outlet.
 20. The flow component of claim 19 wherein thebody is an extrusion.
 21. (canceled)
 22. The flow component of claim 19comprising a plurality of inlet apertures and at least one outlet,wherein each outlet is fluidly connected to at least one of theplurality of inlet apertures.
 23. The flow component of claim 22 whereineach inlet aperture is covered by a respective covering means, whereineach covering means is connected to the body by a respective frangiblelinking portion.
 24. (canceled)
 25. The flow component of claim 10comprising at least one moveable airflow directing means adapted tocontrol a direction of a flow of air from the outlet, in use.